Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has insisted he is “not scared to spend money” in the final days of this summer’s transfer window, while also hinting at a fresh bid for Liverpool’s Luis Suarez and a move to sign Wayne Rooney from Manchester United.

Wenger suggested the media were “well informed” when asked whether he would make a new bid for Suarez and an opening offer for Rooney, in comments that will encourage supporters to believe a big-name signing will arrive at the Emirates after two months of frustration.

“I don’t want to come out on specific names as that would not be right, but the first request we have is do they have the quality to play for Arsenal Football Club,” Wenger said, when quizzed on his targets ahead of Saturday’s Premier League opener at home to Aston Villa.

“We are not scared to spend money, but only on the right players. We would like two or three players, possibly more, but we will not compromise on the quality. I understand every frustration [of the fans]. What is important is the quality we put on the football pitch, but let’s not create a crisis from nothing.

“We played a good game last week [to beat Manchester City in Finland], so let’s try to take that on. The quality of the team that plays tomorrow [on Saturday] will not be linked about who we sign.”

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The Arsenal boss stressed his desire to add “two or three” new faces to his squad before the September 2 transfer deadline, as he hit back at suggestions that his reluctance to pay inflated transfer fees is blocking his hopes of landing a marquee signing.

“We are not afraid to spend money, but only on the right players and there is a shortage of top, top talent,” Wenger said.

“Ideally you would want it to be quicker, but to finalise a transfer you need the agreement of three parties and if you look at our main rivals as well, it is not easy. And if you look at our main rivals Chelsea and Manchester United, it is difficult to find players to strengthen squad.

“I don’t disagree that we are a bit light [in our squad] at the moment. There are 18 days to go and we are of course looking to strengthen our squad. I am optimistic [Arsenal will sign players], of course.”